Galectins in angiogenesis: consequences for gestation

During gestation, proper placental function is critically important for the normal development of the embryo and fetus. As the placenta develops, angiogenesis of maternal vessels and remodelling of the spiral arteries ensure a constant supply of nutrients and oxygen. Angiogenesis is an essential process that ensures not only proper fetal growth and development, but also maternal health during gestation (Reynolds and Redmer, 2001, Chen and Zheng, 2013). In this review we provide an overview of galectin involvement in placental angiogenesis during gestation, and discuss the consequences of dysregulated galectin expression in pregnancy disorders such as preeclampsia.
Source: Journal of Reproductive Immunology - Category: Allergy & Immunology Authors: Source Type: research